What is sweating, and what is its physiological role?
Sweating is an essential thermoregulatory mechanism—without it, body temperature would rise dangerously during physical exertion or exposure to heat. Sweat is produced by two types of sweat glands with very different functions, which explains why not all sweat has the same odor or the same impact onhygiene.
- Eccrine glands: distributed throughout the body (2 to 4 million), very dense on the soles of the feet and palms—produce a watery, salty, almost odorless sweat—primarily for thermoregulation
- Apocrine glands: concentrated in the armpits and groin area—active from puberty onward—produce sweat rich in proteins and fatty acids—a favorite substrate for bacteria responsible for unpleasant odors
- Normal daily volume: 0.5 to 1 liter at rest, up to 2–3 liters during exercise—varies depending on physical condition, acclimatization, and genetics
- Pathological excessive sweating: our hyperhidrosis page covers specific medical diagnoses and treatments
What factors increase sweating in daily life?
Beyond physical exertion, several factors alter the volume and composition of sweat—which directly impacts the effectiveness of the deodorants and antiperspirants used.
- Diet: Spicy foods (capsaicin), caffeine, and alcohol stimulate the sympathetic nervous system and increase thermoregulatory and emotional sweating
- Stress and emotions: Emotional sweat comes primarily from the apocrine glands in the armpits and palms—it is more concentrated in bacterial substrates and therefore more odorous for the same volume
- Medications: Antidepressants (SSRIs), antipyretics, and certain antihypertensives can increase sweating as a side effect
- Hot flashes (menopause, perimenopause): linked to hormonal fluctuations—frequent night sweats that disrupt sleep
- Synthetic fabrics: Polyester and nylon prevent sweat from evaporating—exacerbating skin maceration and bacterial growth—opt for cotton, bamboo, or merino wool for exercise
What herbs and natural approaches can help reduce sweating?
Several plants affect sweating through natural anticholinergic mechanisms—reducing stimulation of the sweat glands without adverse effects at recommended doses.
- Common sage: the go-to herb for mild excessive sweating—tannins and diterpenes partially inhibit stimulation of the eccrine glands—the EMA recognizes its use for mild excessive sweating in the form of herbal tea (2–3 cups/day) or dry extract
- Witch hazel: local astringent action (tannins)—applied topically to affected areas—tightens the tissues and slightly reduces surface moisture
- Burdock and stinging nettle: “purifying” herbs traditionally used to improve renal excretion and indirectly reduce sweat production—use as a 3-week treatment
- Complementary approaches: reduce trigger foods (strong spices, caffeine), prioritize breathable fabrics, manage chronic stress—factors that enhance the effectiveness of topical solutions
Sweating and Exercise: How to Manage Hydration and Related Care?
During physical exertion, sweating can reach 1 to 2 liters per hour depending on intensity and temperature—dehydration is the primary risk to manage, even before body odor. Our sports wellness line offers solutions tailored to physical activity.
- Pre-exercise hydration: 500 mL of water in the hour before exercise—starting out hydrated reduces heat stress and delays dehydration
- During exercise: 150–200 mL every 15–20 minutes—water alone for < 1h, boisson isotonique avec électrolytes pour les efforts > -1-hour workouts (to replenish lost sodium and potassium)
- Post-exercise: sports deodorant applied immediately after showering—sports formulas often contain enhanced antibacterial active ingredients (tea tree, zinc) and a higher concentration of antiperspirant
- Athletes’ feet: the area most prone to odor and fungal infections — socks made of breathable fibers, thorough drying between the toes, foot antiperspirant if necessary
